Colombia has allocated 69 areas for offshore wind energy development, concluding the nomination process on January 31. Interested companies include BlueFloat Energy, PowerChina, and Ecopetrol. The government is set to verify proposals before awarding areas to promote clean energy transition and sustainable job creation in the country.

Colombia has successfully designated 69 areas for its inaugural round of offshore wind energy development. This initiative is spearheaded by the Ministry of Mines and Energy in collaboration with the General Maritime Directorate (DIMAR) and the National Hydrocarbons Agency (ANH). The nomination process concluded on January 31, during which various companies submitted proposals for additional polygons to be evaluated by the responsible authorities to determine the most suitable areas for bidding.

Among the companies expressing interest in offshore projects were notable names such as BlueFloat Energy (Spain), Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (Denmark), Jan de Nul (Belgium), DEME (Belgium), Powerchina (China), and Celsia (Colombia), among others. However, not all proposals were approved, with the following entities remaining in contention: Vientos Alisos, CI GMF II Cooperatief, Jan de Nul, Ecopetrol, PowerChina International Group Limited, CTG Colombia Holdings, Promesa de sociedad futuro OSW Colombia, and Deme Celsia Offshore wind.

Once the suitability assessments of submitted proposals are completed, approved companies will be able to make offers on their preferred areas. Each company may receive up to two awards. Omar Andrés Camacho, the Minister of Mines and Energy, stated that the government is proactively working to ensure that the nominated areas are suitable, thereby encouraging proper bidding strategies and promoting the realization of offshore wind energy in Colombia, benefiting local communities.

The timeline indicates that by the end of May this year, the “Deposit of Offers” phase will conclude, revealing the number of competing proposals. Companies are permitted to submit bids on areas up to 270 square kilometers, requiring projects to have a minimum installed capacity of 200 megawatts (MW). Orlando Velandia Sepúlveda, the president of the ANH, remarked on the strong interest in renewable energy, underscoring the private sector’s commitment to advancing Colombia’s energy transition and fostering sustainable energy sources through offshore wind energy.

This initiative not only aims to diversify Colombia’s energy matrix but also aspires to create employment opportunities and alleviate the adverse effects of climate change. The commitment towards renewable energy signals a strategic effort towards a greener future for Colombia.

Colombia’s initiative to designate 69 areas for offshore wind energy represents a significant step toward enhancing its renewable energy infrastructure. With prominent companies involved, this initiative is anticipated to pave the way for a sustainable energy transition, fostering economic growth and job creation. The government’s support reflects a commitment to diversifying the energy matrix and addressing climate change challenges.

Original Source: www.evwind.es

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